Matt Gale, campsite manager at Sumners Pond Fishery and Campsite, which offered hot drinks to the passengers, said: “It’s a great village to know people are willing to help.”

Sue Sturt subsequently wrote on social media: “Well done Barns Green and Sumners Pond for helping out the stranded passengers.”

Paul Berry tweeted: “Hats off to the Barns Green community for pulling together so well after today’s terrible event.”

Officers are asking anyone with information to get in touch by calling 0800 40 50 40 quoting reference of 07/02/18.

Train lines between Horsham and Pulborough remain suspended following the incident. Detective Inspector Brett Walker from British Transport Police said: “This is an extremely tragic incident and our thoughts are with the family at this difficult time.

“Our officers have been working at the scene, and will continue to do so for the rest of the day, to ensure we gain as much information about how the collision happened.

“People should expect some disruption to services in the area while we investigate.

“I would like to thank the community in Barns Green for their support and patience.”